Ahhh... Often it’s the very situations in which we most want to be calm and relaxed that incite nervousness. This breathing method can work as an antidote by promoting feelings of tranquility and repose. Begin by sitting down or lying on your back with your eyes closed. Turn your palms up so they face the ceiling. Let out a long, slow breath, like a big sigh. Then begin breathing in slowly. Count to four on the inhale. As you inhale, draw your fingers into your palms to form soft fists. Do the opposite on the exhale: Breathe out to a count of four as you slowly unfold your fingers. Repeat this several times. Moving your fingers gives you something to do to refocus your anxious energy, and breathing evenly, in and out, relaxes your system. Doing these two things together helps reintegrate your body, breath, and mind so you feel composed and are ready to meet whatever is ahead.
KERRY AND LUIS/OFFSET
—CYNDI LEE, cyndilee.com
F E B RUARY 2018 R E A L S I M P L E
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